PLDD treatment for anular tears, rim lesions or disc ruptures.

[Keano16]

In our series of over 4,000 procedures in over 20 years, we have encountered post-procedure discitis (disc infection) in only 10 cases. All of these patients got well with antibiotics.

Yes, it can occur, but not so often.

[Keano16]

If the degeneration is advanced (as it is in most of the people I run into), I think PLLD is too little too late.

Yes, that is why I opened this thread. Because there are some indications that PLDD can help people with anular tears (which is advanced degeneration), and I've heard of some cases (Dr. Choy also mentioned something about that) where PLDD is used for treatment of anular tears, rhizotomy, etc.

So I am seeking for experiences.

[Keano16]

Here is a proof that PLDD can help if you have annular tear or IDD causing pains by sinu-vertebral nerve irritation:

Percutaneous laser disc decompression in the treat...[Photomed Laser Surg. 2004] - PubMed Result

[Maria]

L3 has an annular tear x 20 years. Done nothing for it. Has been problematic in past but not in last 10 years.

L4- percutaneous discectomy in '92/failed. Worse. Rebulged. Get lumbar ESIs transforaminally for relief plus pain meds and Gabapentin for neuropathies.

L5S1- open discectomy and partial laminectomy in '89/better but rebulged and more problematic. Get lumbar ESIs transforaminally for relief plus pain meds and Gabapentin for neuorpathies.

My problems are very old (originating in 1982). Have been offered an array of surgeries from 3 level global fusion to 2 level ADR to ADR plus fusion. So far have decided to do nothing except continue conservative therapy as long as possible.

I imagine laser is for newer (more recent) bulges, tears and so forth.

[mmglobal]

I have recently seen annulus repair devices used. This will give us more options for minimally invasive procedures for people who have advanced further down the degenerative cascade, making us poorer candidates for the easier and less invasive options.

Mark

[Keano16]

Please give more info ASAP.

Thanks.